Forum: Helpful to have instant video link for seniors with tech questions

An elderly man uses his phone to scan the QR code for SafeEntry at Novena's Square 2 on June 2, 2020. PHOTO: ST FILE

It is heartening to learn about the forming of a new SG Digital Office (SDO) to help seniors adopt digital tools and online lifestyles (New outfit to boost S'pore's digitalisation capabilities, June 1).

A common worry among seniors in attempting to take on a digital initiative is: What if something goes wrong and help is not always readily available when they need it.

Given Singapore's high smartphone and Internet use, we could consider the option of providing instant online help via video call or videoconferencing.

Given that the SDO will recruit 1,000 digital ambassadors, perhaps some of the new staff could be assigned to man a dedicated video call or conferencing channel to attend to seniors' questions.

Gary Lim Jit Siang

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 04, 2020, with the headline Forum: Helpful to have instant video link for seniors with tech questions. Subscribe